Keeping Chips Fresh – The Ultimate Guide
Crunch! Crunch! The satisfying crunch of chips is what people are typically drawn to when they eat chips. There is something special about that crunch. But it’s just awful when your chips go stale and you miss that perfect crunch factor.
How do you keep chips fresh?
Do you have to do different things for different types of chips to keep them fresh? The best way to keep chips fresh is to store them in a cool, dry place. If you can remove them from their original packaging and put them in an airtight, resealable bag, that is the best option. Otherwise, you can purchase bag clips to help seal the chips in their original packaging.
The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Chips Fresh
Stop worrying about those chips and let us guide you through everything you need to know about chips and how to keep your chips fresh.
The best way to keep your chips fresh
There are a few basic rules you should follow when storing chips. First, note that even homemade chips can be stored using these rules. They do not need to be stored in the refrigerator. Here is the best way to keep chips fresh:
- Always store in a cool, dry place.
- This is very important.
- Store in a sealed container for best shelf life.
- Freezer options available.
- If storing in a bag, remove excess air and make sure there are no tears or rips in the bag that would allow outside air to enter. Roll tightly to seal.
The key to chip storage is airtightness. By following these small steps and tips for chip storage, you will ensure that your chips stay fresh for a long time. There will be no stale chips for a long time!
We cannot stress enough that the key to having fresh chips is to make sure that they are sealed as tightly as possible. Of course, you will have to open your bag or storage container to get the chips out. When you do, be sure to close and seal the chips immediately.
The longer the chips remain open, the more they are exposed to the surrounding air. This air will cause the chips to become stale, robbing them of the fresh crunch and flavor you want.
We recommend that you seal the chips as soon as you get what you need. This is the best way to ensure that they are not left open or improperly sealed and that your chips are fresh the next time you reach for them.
How to seal chips to keep them fresh
Check out this list of recommendations for sealing your chips:
- Seal your bagged chips tightly by letting the air out of the bag and rolling the top tightly down.
- Attach a chip clip to the tightly sealed bag. If you don’t have chip clips, try using a paper clip or clothespin to hold the bag closed.
- Place your chips in a Ziploc-style bag and seal well.
- Store your chips in an airtight container and dispose of the bags completely.
These methods can be used together or separately. As mentioned earlier, the key to keeping your chips fresh is to keep them out of the air for long periods of time. If your chips are exposed to the air, they can quickly become stale.
5 types of chips to keep fresh at all times
Now that you know how to keep chips fresh, here are the 5 types of chips we recommend prioritizing and keeping fresh in your home. These are the 5 types of chips we will cover in this guide to keeping chips fresh:
- Potato Chips
- Kettle Chips
- Tortilla Chips
- Vegetable Chips
- Homemade Chips
Everyone has their own tastes and preferences. Each of these types of chips serves a purpose, and you may find that you prefer one type of chip over another. Most other types of chips are simply used as a snack or as part of a meal. The flavors allow them to be versatile so you can choose what you like.
1. Potato Chips
Potato chips were the original version of chips. Every other type of chip on the market was inspired by the potato chip. Potato chips are still one of the most popular snack foods purchased.
Why are potato chips so popular? Not because they are a healthy treat, but because almost everyone who tries them loves the flavors, the ability to choose a specific flavor, the ease of eating them, and the satisfying crunch that comes with them.
Potato chips are certainly not a nutritious option, but according to statistics, they make up about 40% of all snack foods consumed. They are more popular than other types of chips, as well as other snacks such as cookies or pretzels. To keep potato chips fresh, follow the storage guidelines mentioned earlier in this guide.
2. Kettle Chips
Kettle chips are known for their thicker and crispier texture compared to regular potato chips. They are cooked in small batches and often have unique flavors and seasonings. To keep kettle chips fresh, follow the same storage guidelines mentioned above.
3. Tortilla Chips
Tortilla chips are a staple of Mexican cuisine and are often used to dip in salsa, guacamole, or cheese dips. To keep tortilla chips fresh, store them in an airtight container or resealable bag and follow the storage guidelines above. Be aware of their fragility and try to handle them gently to prevent breakage.
4. Vegetable Chips
Vegetable chips are a healthier alternative to traditional potato chips because they are made from thinly sliced vegetables such as beets, sweet potatoes or kale. They have a crunchy texture and unique flavors. To keep veggie chips fresh, store them in an airtight container or resealable bag and follow the same storage guidelines mentioned above.
5. Homemade Chips
Homemade chips are a fun treat that allows you to experiment with different flavors and seasonings. Whether you make them from potatoes, sweet potatoes, or other vegetables, the storage guidelines are the same. Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container or resealable bag.
Conclusion
Now that you have the ultimate guide to keeping chips fresh, you can enjoy your favorite crunchy snack without worrying about them going stale. Remember to keep your chips in a cool, dry place and seal them tightly in an airtight container or bag. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your chips stay fresh, crunchy and flavorful for a long time.
So the next time you have a craving for potato chips, kettle chips, tortilla chips, veggie chips, or even homemade chips, you can confidently reach for a fresh and satisfying snack. Happy snacking!
FAQS
Why do chips get stale?
Chips go stale when they are exposed to air, causing them to lose their crispness and become soft and less enjoyable to eat.
Can I store crisps in the fridge?
While it’s not necessary to store crisps in the fridge, it’s important to keep them in a cool, dry place. Storing them in the fridge can introduce moisture, which can make them go stale more quickly.
How long can I keep crisps fresh?
When properly stored in airtight containers or resealable bags, crisps can stay fresh for several weeks to a few months, depending on the type of crisps and storage conditions.
Can I freeze crisps to keep them fresh?
Yes, you can freeze crisps to prolong their freshness. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, remove excess air and seal tightly. However, keep in mind that freezing can affect the texture of the chips, so they may not be as crispy when thawed.
Should I transfer the crisps to another container?
If you can remove the crisps from their original packaging and store them in an airtight container, this can help to prolong their freshness. However, if the original packaging is already re-sealable and in good condition, you can simply use bag clips to seal it tightly.
How will I know if my crisps have gone off?
If your crisps have gone off, they will usually lose their crispness and become stale, soft or even chewy. They may also develop a rancid or off-flavour. Check the chips for signs of mould, discolouration or an unpleasant odour, and if you notice any of these, it’s best to throw them away.